Situated in the northwestern corner of Shikoku, Ehime Prefecture has a long coastline straddling the beautiful Seto Inland Sea and mountains packed with a diversity of flora and fauna. Matsuyama Airport, located in the prefectural capital of the same name, is the most accessible way to get to Ehime, as it connects to all major airports in Japan. Those preferring to ride the rails can hop on a limited express train departing from Okayama and arrive in under three hours.
The most memorable way, however, would have to be crossing by car, bicycle or on foot via the Shimanami Kaido , an expressway that connects Onomichi City (Hiroshima) and Imabari City (Ehime). Looking to spend some time admiring seasonal blooms and the great outdoors while enjoying some self-care time? This particular region of Japan has you covered. As tourism numbers rebound in the post-pandemic age, why not avoid the crowds at major destinations in Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto and make your way to Ehime Prefecture? Ehime’s geography features an extensive shoreline, high mountains and a diverse variety of flora and fauna inhabiting the region.
On the southern tip of Oshima Island off the coast of Imabari City is Mount Kirosan. Oshima is accessible via the Shimanami Kaido and atop the 300-meter summit sits Kirosan Observatory Park — offering spectacular views of the Seto Inland Sea. Built into the mountainside by the renowned architect Kengo Kuma, this panoramic vantage point features unmatched views of the famed.
